Researchers have found that a few simple ankle/foot exercises can significantly improve the lower extremity strength and balance of senior citizens. As we age, we lose strength and mobility as well as coordination and balance. These things, especially in the lower extremities, increase the risk of fall-type injuries and more or less, slow us down. New research shows that a few simple exercises performed for 15-minutes, 3-times per week can significantly improve ankle/foot strength and overall balance. The 15-minute exercise session consists of a 5-minute warm-up, 5 minutes of ankle flexion/extension exercises using therapeutic elastic bands, ending with a 5-minute cool down period. When compared with seniors who did not participate in the simple ankle/foot exercises, those performing the exercises experienced a significant improvement in functional mobility and balance. Seniors should be especially cautious and discuss the appropriateness and safety of exercise regimes with their primary care provider such as their local chiropractor prior to initiating any exercise program.

A new report in the Mayo Clinic Health Letter recommends staying active in order to reduce some of the discomforts associated with aging. While many tend to blame those stiff, aching joints and sore backs on their increasing age, experts believe that many of these aches and pains can be reduced if not eliminated by implementing an exercise regimen and/or simply remaining active. Other studies show exercise and physical activity help to lower the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes as well as improve energy and immune function. The experts also say it's never too late to start exercising. Be sure to consult with your chiropractor or other health care provider prior to implementing any new exercise regimen.

A new study finds replacing that old mattress could improve sleep quality and reduce sleep related back discomfort. Researchers recorded the reported back discomfort and sleep quality for 28 consecutive days with 30 female and 29 male subjects sleeping in their existing beds (average age of beds was 9.5 years old). Subject's beds were then replaced by new, medium-firm beds and again, their sleep quality and back discomfort were tracked. Researchers noted a significant improvement between pre and post test sleep quality and efficiency. Thus, if you feel that your bed has turned into a boxing ring for your body, perhaps it's time to consider a replacement. Of course, it's important to have yourself checked by a licensed chiropractor if you are experiencing any back pain or discomfort to ensure there isn't a more serious underlying condition present.

While 32 of the more than 150 VA health care facilities (those specifically providing health care services to our nation's veterans) offer chiropractic services, a new bill will require the VA to have a doctor of chiropractic on staff at all VA medical facilities by 2012. Integrating chiropractic treatment into the VA health care system would not only be cost-effective, it would also speed the recovery of many of the veterans returning from current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. A January 2009 report from the Veterans Health Administration indicates that over 49 percent of veterans returning from the Middle East and Southwest Asia who have sought VA health care were treated for symptoms associated with musculoskeletal ailments - the top complaint of those tracked for the report. Chiropractors are experts in the care of musculoskeletal injuries offering a safe, effective, non-invasive hands on treatment approach. Currently, the bill (HR 1017) has been referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. To view the full text of HR 1017, click here. Contact your Member of Congress and urge them to co-sponsor HR 1017.